Chicago Bears 2019 NFL Draft: Potential undrafted gems

Running Back Alexander Mattison, Boise State

There are tons of people out there banging the drum for a running back with the Bears’ third round pick, and quite honestly, I don’t see it happening. I think Pace is going to go with talent at another spot, like offensive line, to solidify the depth at a crucial position.

We have seen that running backs are a dime a dozen lately, and Pace has the knack for finding solid prospects later on. Whether or not they decide to draft a running back with one of their five picks, Alexander Mattison is a guy I’d love to see them sign following the draft, assuming he is not selected.

Last year, Mattison finished with his second-straight season over 1,000 yards and totaled 1,415 yards and 17 touchdowns on the ground. In 2017, he ran for 1,086 yards and 12 scores.

Mattison is the ideal do-it-all back, standing 5-foot-11 and weighing roughly 210 pounds. He ran his 40-yard dash in 4.67 seconds at the Combine, which isn’t quite as fast as you’d love out of your running back, but again, we’re talking about a potentially undrafted guy.

He is a good athlete, despite not possessing game-breaking speed, as he tallied a vertical jump of 35.0 inches and broad jump at 127.0 inches. Mattison has also caught 55 passes over the last two years, bringing a little bit of versatility to his game.

The one thing I’ll caution you with Mattison is this: He has analysts split. I’ve seen him projected as high as a fourth round guy, and as low as going undrafted. If he’s selected, that’s alright. However, if he fails to hear his name called, he’s a must-sign.